A Social Security card seems like one of the most sacred documents that we are ever given. It is one that we keep safely tucked away in a nice office drawer or safe box to ensure that no one ever gets hold of it. Keeping the card safe also ensures that we can find the card whenever we may need it. Some people unfortunately do lose their cards or the card gets stolen, even if they kept it extremely safe. There are a few steps that you need to take in order to procure a new card for yourself. If you are prepared for the process, it should not be hard and you will be able to get a new card sooner than you think.
The first thing you will want to do if your Social Security card is lost or stolen is to check your assets. Someone may be using your Social Security card or number to take advantage of you. Your identity could be getting stolen if someone has your card. You should put a fraud alert on your credit file to alert the companies that you are no longer in control of your assets. This will also prevent the thieves from using your Social Security number to open credit accounts in your name. This also prevents them from having access to your bank account. You should keep track of all of your accounts and close anything that you did not open, and alert your bank or creditor of any suspicious activity. This step may seem like something to do when you have your Social Security card back. You will get documents from these companies saying that your card and number have been stolen. These documents will help you get your Social Security card back easier because you will have proof that it has been stolen. This first step of alerting companies to fraud is one of the most important steps.
There are a few things to remember when getting a new Social Security card. You can replace a card three times during one year. You can only replace a card 10 times during your lifetime. If you replace a card because of a legal name change or a change in your citizenship, it does not count against your allowed number of replacements. You will then need to complete a form called the SS-5 Application for a Social Security Card. After, you need to give the Social Security office an unexpired original document. You can use a drivers’ license and provide additional identifying information to prove your identity. You will also need to show proof of citizenship.
If you are getting a card for the first time and you are over the age of 12, you will need to take different steps. You need to go into the Social Security office for an interview. You will need to provide documents that prove you do not already have a Social Security number or card. If you are applying for a card because of loss or theft, you can complete the application online.
Protecting your identity is very important. Keeping your Social Security card safe will help ensure that your identity is also safe. It is unfortunate that Social Security cards do get lost or stolen. Following the steps above will help you get your identity and your card back in no time at all. Your life will be back to normal faster than you thought.